Review: The Stump Stand

Small, yet tough, this tablet accessory stands in a class of its own. The Stump Stand is a unique tablet stand that’s made of a soft rubber-like material. It’s small and quite versatile. It has a simple design that resembles a tree stump, hence the name. What makes this special is how it can hold your device in three different positions — ramp, upright, and lean.

To put your iPad in Ramp Position, simply just lay your device on top of the Stump. Your iPad covers most of the Stump that your device will appear to be floating on top of the table at just the perfect angle. Lay it down in portrait mode and you can play a friendly game of “Words with Friends.” Put it horizontally, and you have the perfect position for email or web surfing. You can adjust the angle by resting the bottom of the iPad closer or farther from the Stump.

To use your iPad in Upright Position, slide your device into BOTTOM step of the Stump. This will hold the iPad in an upright position. It’s about an 80^o angle, perfect for watching a video or reading a book.

Lastly, to use your iPad in the Lean Position, use the TOP step of the Stump for your device. This holds the iPad in a slightly leaning position (~50^o angle), perfect for gaming, reading, or surfing. It’s recommended that the iPad be horizontal in this position. Having it in portrait mode is not as sturdy especially if firm there is firm tapping of the screen.

The Stump is also available in a customizable version where you can have your logo on the back. This is perfect for business gifts or conference giveaways! Prices for these start at $20 each when you purchase 100 or more.

Overall, the Stump’s unique shape makes it stand out from the crowd. It’s lightweight, portable, and quite versatile. You can use everywhere you take your iPad. The Stump is best used with a caseless iPad. If you prefer to use a thin case, the Ramp position work best. And although I tested this out mostly on the iPad, it’s also compatible with other tablets and eReaders on the market. It also makes a nice little stand for your iPhone or iPod touch. You’ll find many uses for it. This stand is worth a try if you enjoy a minimalists’ approach to design and functionality.

The Stump comes in a variety of colors. Contact them if you don’t see your preferred color.

$29.95 · StumpStore.com

Disclosure: This product was given by StumpStore for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

iPad Stand Review: Griffin Loop

At first glance, this stand looks ordinary, but once you use it, you’ll love how elegantly it holds you iPad in a few different configurations.

The Griffin Loop is basically an oval-shaped piece. On the bottom of the Loop are three non-slip pieces. This keeps the stand in place. There are two cutouts that holds the iPad in an upright position. This is the perfect angle for watching videos. The iPad could be placed in either portrait mode or landscape.

The more interesting position is when you lay the iPad right on top of the Loop. This angle and position is perfect if you’re playing a tapping game like “Plants vs Zombies” or “We Rule” or just surfing websites. It’s one of few stands that hold the iPad in a comfortable gaming position.

Although, packing this stand is not recommended due to the space it takes up, it’s perfect to put in the kitchen or near your work area to hold up your iPad. It’s a strong and sturdy stand that you’ll definitely enjoy.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars · $29.99 · GriffinTechnology.com

Disclosure: This product was sent by Griffin Technology for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

Fling, a Joystick for Your iPad!

Tapping on your iPad screen is great for most games, but do you ever wish you had a joystick for other games? Ten One Design, the maker of the first capacitive touch-screen stylus for the iPhone, just announced their revolutionary game controller for the iPad called Fling!

For more information, see GeekBeat.TV

Angry Birds 3D Display

I was inspired this weekend and created this crafty Angry Birds 3D display. You can make your own too by following my steps! Enjoy!

Big Holiday Sale on iPhone and iPad Apps!

So many hot deals on apps this week! Here’s a round-up of a few of my favorite bargains. Enjoy!

Jenga – Another favorite classic board game has gone digital! Build as high as you can by removing a piece from the bottom and put it on top. Pieces will highlight in one of three colors – white, yellow, or red. This tells you how difficult the piece is to remove. Pull the piece out quickly or slow and don’t let it topple! Compete with friends via Game Center and Facebook to see who can build the highest! iPhone Version (99 cents) | iPad Version (99 cents)

Wordcrasher – one of the most addictive word games in the iTunes App store. Whether you love word games or not, you’ll fall in love with this one instantly. Make as many words as you can as letters fall down. Well-polished graphics that remind me of a box of candies. Check the leaderboards on OpenFeint and Game Center. iPhone/iPod Touch Version (99 cents)

Symbol6 Redux – Here’s a puzzle game that tests your speed and hand-eye coordination. The Symbo6 machine is a hexagon that holds 7 different movable tiles. Drag and drop to match incoming titles to earn points. Game Center integration to share and broadcast your scores. Normally 99 cents, it’s free this week. iPhone/iPod Touch Version (Free) | iPad Version ($2.99)

Babo Crash Rush – if you love match-3 jewel games, this is a must-have! It’s like like Bejewled on steroids! There’s so much action going on and my favorite part is being able to change the direction of gravity. Tilt and turn the iPad/iPhone to get pieces to fall in certain places. The app is universal, making it beautiful on the iPad or iPhone. Full version includes more modes, while the Rush version includes a free timed game. Universal (Free) | Universal (99 cents)

Scrabble – word game addicts, get this before the price goes up! It’s Hasbro’s classic word game right on your iPhone. Play against the computer, your friend next to you, or even your Facebook friends. Add up points and aim to get the triple letters and triple words all across the board. The person with the most points at the end wins! But hurry, this sale won’t last long! The iPad version is normally $9.99, now only 99 cents. You can play the free version as a Facebook app. iPhone/iPod Touch Lite Version (Free) | iPhone/iPod Touch Version (99 cents) | iPad Version (99 cents)

Pix ‘n Love Rush – So retro and so much fun, this game will take you back to the time of pixels and short attention spans! Help the little critter make it through the levels by moving, jumping, and shooting. Collect yellow pieces and avoid or shoot purple ones. Rush through all the short levels quickly and safely. The iPad Version was $3.99, but is on sale this week for just 99 cents. iPhone/iPod Touch Version (99 cents) | iPad Version (99 cents)

Toy Story Mania – Come one, come all. Step right up and play the Disney-inspired game called Toy Story Mania! Just like the theme park ride, you’re taken to mini-games that are represented by their respective characters. Instead of pulling a string on a cannon, you swipe, shoot, flick, pop, and toss things at targets and gain points. There are 5 mini games which include: Hammin’ Eggs, Buzz Lightyears’ Flying Tossers, Bo Pee’s Baaa-loon Pop, Green Army Men Shoot Camp, and Woody’s Rootin’ Tootin’ Shootin’ Gallery. Full Review..
iPhone/iPod Touch Version (99 cents)

Chop Sushi – There are many match-three games in the App Store, but “Chop Sushi” stands out in this genre. This game proves to be a tasty treat! The object of the game is to match at least 3 types of sushi. The more sushi you match, the more turns you get. There’s also a fun roll-playing twist too. Download and give it a try. The game is normally $2.99 (iPhone) and $3.99 (iPad). iPhone Version (99 cents) | iPhone Lite Version (Free) | iPad Version (99 cents)

iBlast Moki – Send the Mokis to safety by bombing their way through the mysterious lands!
This is similar to Rolando, but there’s definitely more bombs and a whole lotta blasting of things in this game. It’s a game of physics where you have to place bombs in certain places and have them go off at different times. The object is to have the blast bounce the Moki’s into the portal holes. iPhone/iPod Touch Version (99 cents) | iPad Version ($3.99)

Word Lens – This is probably one of the most amazing apps I’ve seen in a while. It instantly translate printed text from one language into another using your phone’s built-in camera. And the magical part is that it does it in real time! Point your phone at a sign and it’ll translate the text instantly! It’s a free app with two demo modes on it. The Spanish-English, English-Spanish in-app purchases are $4.99 each (50% off sale). iPhone/iPod Touch Version (Free)

Snow Brawlin’ – Risoo the squirrel needs your help! A group of rogue rodents have taken over his area. And with the season’s nut shortage, there’s only one way to settle this. Snowball fight! It’s a fun game that will get your quick fingers tapping and heart laughing. The game is free but you can purchase in-app extra three lives for 99 cents. The pro version comes with the extra lives. iPhone/iPod Touch Version (Free) | iPhone/iPod Touch Pro Version (99 cents)

Doodle Jump Christmas Special – Doodle Jump is back with even more holiday fun! New graphics and monsters puts you in the holiday spirit! Jump as high as you can and compete with your friends on Facebook and Game Center.
iPhone/iPod Touch Version (99 cents)

Scrabble Blast! – Make the longest words you can on the scrabble board before the time runs out. Make words with letters with bombs for even more points. It is ad-supported so that could be a little bit annoying. Some ads show up right over your buttons, and when a game is over, a big ad is shown too. But it may be worth the download if you enjoy word games.
iPhone/iPod Touch Version (Free)

Star Wars Arcade Falcon Gunner – Probably one of the coolest Augmented Reality games currently available! Imagine defending your own city against galactic intruders right in your own living room! AR mode puts the fight right in your own physical space. It turns your surroundings to be part of a space battle like no other game. Game Center and Facebook integration.
iPhone/iPod Touch 4 Version (99 cents)

Tetris – Who doesn’t know how to play Tetris? It’s a classic! Geometric pieces drop down and you need to rotate and move them to fit in rows below. Get four rows at once and you got a super powerful Tetis! The updated graphics and colors are beautiful! It’s currently on sale for both the iPhone and iPad at its lowest price ever this weekend. So get it before it’s gone! Apps are normally $2.99 and $7.99 for the iPhone and iPad, respectively.
iPhone Version (99 cents) | iPad Version (99 cents)

SimCity Deluxe – Ever dreamed of building your own city? Now you can and manage it as well with the new SimCity^TM. Draw up the blueprints and run wild planning your city’s layout. Normally $6.99, both iPhone and iPad versions are on sale for just 99 cents!
iPhone/iPod Touch Version (99 cents) | iPad Version (99 cents)

Etch-A-Sketch iPad Case

Relive your childhood with the new Etch A Sketch iPad Case by Headcase! Inspired by the original Etch A Sketch from Ohio Art, this favorite toy can be brought back to life by your iPad!

The case comes in two parts — the top red piece and the bottom closing piece. When you first receive the iPad case, you’ll need to open the enclosing. To do this, use a coin, slide and twist to loosen the two pieces apart. You’ll need to do this twice in the two slots at the bottom of the case.

Once you you take the two pieces apart, you’ll see that the top piece is made of a hard and sturdy red plastic, with the same familiar design of the classic Etch A Sketch. The top part of the case has all the cutouts for the buttons and ports of the iPad. If you’re holding it in landscape the mode, the top part also has “Magic Etch A Sketch(R) Screen” written in big gold letters. At the bottom are the two pseudo white knobs (used for drawing up/down and left/right on the original Etch A Sketch).

The bottom piece is made of the same sturdy plastic, except in black. It also has the familiar big X running through the back of the case. However, there’s a big circle cutout in the middle that showcases the beautiful Apple logo. There are also two flip-out tabs that act as a stand for the iPad (in landscape mode).

To put your iPad in the case, gently lay it on top of the bottom piece, and snap the top red piece on. Work you way around the case and make sure each edge is snapped in tightly.

As beautiful as this case is, there are a few flaws. The biggest one is the cutout on the back that showcases the Apple logo. It’s not protected, so there is possibility of it being scratched on the back. I would have liked to see a hard clear plastic covering the back. Another minor issue is that the cutout for the Home button is a bit small. I often find myself using my nails to click on the button — this may be a problem if you don’t have nails. This goes the same for the volume and notification buttons. Also, if you hold the iPad case in portrait mode, you’ll notice that the gold lettering may start to wear off, so be careful touching that area as well. Although there are a few minor flaws, anyone who owned an Etch-A-Sketch will be able to look pass them and enjoy this amazing reminder of their childhood!

Overall, this is a great iPad case if you want to make your iPad look even more awesome. It’s a great conversation starter, and a great reminder of a classic toy. If you’re looking for something special for your geek for the holidays, this case will surely put a smile on their face!

Ratings: 4 out of 5 stars · Headcase · Purchase for $39.00

Disclosure: This product was a birthday gift from my relatives. I enjoyed it so much that I wanted to write a review to be part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

iPhone & iPad Apps Black Friday Sale!

Here’s an extra special post for the holiday! The holiday being Black Friday! Below are some apps that I thought were a great bargain for Black Friday sales. Happy app shopping!

Scrabble – word game addicts, get this before the price goes up! It’s Hasbro’s classic word game right on your iPhone. Play against the computer, your friend next to you, or even your Facebook friends. Add up points and aim to get the triple letters and triple words all across the board. The person with the most points at the end wins! But hurry, this sale won’t last long! You can play the free version as a Facebook app. iPhone/iPod Touch Version (99 cents) | iPad Version ($4.99)

Toy Story Mania – Come one, come all. Step right up and play the Disney-inspired game called Toy Story Mania! Just like the theme park ride, you’re taken to mini-games that are represented by their respective characters. Instead of pulling a string on a cannon, you swipe, shoot, flick, pop, and toss things at targets and gain points. There are 5 mini games which include: Hammin’ Eggs, Buzz Lightyears’ Flying Tossers, Bo Pee’s Baaa-loon Pop, Green Army Men Shoot Camp, and Woody’s Rootin’ Tootin’ Shootin’ Gallery. iPhone/iPod Touch Version (99 cents) | Full Review..

Shrek Forever After – Relive the fairy tale of Shrek! Here’s an adventure game based on the original movie. Shrek heads into the forest to retrieve all the kids birthday presents that Donkey dropped. He gets attacked by Robinhood and his merry men. Punch your way through to reach the next level where Rumpelstiltskin awaits! It’s a face moving game with beautiful graphics. A definite buy for any Shrek fan. Hurry, it’s only 99 cents today so get it soon!
iPad Version (99 cents) | iPhone/iPod Touch Version ($4.99)

Alice in Wonderland – if you’re an Alice fan, this is a must. This adventure puzzle game was inspired by Tim Burton’s film. Help Alice get through various mazes, finding all of her looking-glass friends. Collect shards of mirror pieces and help her get back home. Normally $4.99. iPhone/iPod Touch Version (99 cents) | iPhone/iPod Touch Lite Version (Free)

The Simpsons Arcade – If you enjoy the Simpsons, get this one and help lead Homer to the donuts! He beats up the entire neighbor for them! The game is optimized for the iPhone and iPod Touch, but I really enjoy playing it on the iPad in 2x mode. The graphics look great and the controls are even easier to use. Get it now since it’s on sale for 99 cents! It’s normally $2.99 iPhone/iPod Touch Version ($0.99) | iPhone/iPod Touch Lite Version (Free)

Sketchbook Pro – This is an amazing tool for artists. Keep a sketchbook of all your drawings right on your iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad. It’s a professional-grade paint and drawing app. Plenty of sketching and painting tools, including several brushes, an array of colors, and layers. Normally $7.99, the iPad version is now on sale for 99 cents. iPad Version (99 cents) | iPhone / iPod Touch Version (99 cents) | iPhone / iPod Touch Lite Version (Free)

Navigon – This is one of the best GPS apps to hit the iTunes app store! Doing a little holiday travel? Get directions to your next destination quickly and easily with Navigon. Included are beautiful offline maps, so no need to worry about not having phone signal in a specific location. Select apps are on sale. iPhone Versions: USA ($29.99) | US East Region ($19.99) | US West Region ($19.99) | US Central Region ($19.99)

Ranch Rush 2 – The sequel to the popular time management is finally out! And it’s gone tropical! Sara’s back with a whole new adventure. Help Sara launch a new tropical farming division. Game-Center ready for the iPad. Normally $6.99, it’s on sale for 99 cents today only.
iPad Version (99 cents)

Tetris – Who doesn’t know how to play Tetris? It’s a classic! Geometric pieces drop down and you need to rotate and move them to fit in rows below. Get four rows at once and you got a super powerful Tetis! The updated graphics and colors are beautiful! It’s currently on sale for both the iPhone and iPad at its lowest price ever this weekend. So get it before it’s gone! Apps are normally $2.99 and $7.99 for the iPhone and iPad, respectively.
iPhone Version (99 cents) | iPad Version ($2.99)

Game of Life – Any idea what your future holds? Why not play the Game of Life? Just like the classic board game, but much more fun! Roll the dice and see if you own a house, have a few kids, or have a career change. Earn money as you go. Player with the most wins!
iPhone/iPod Touch Version (99 cents)

Mystic Emporium – Here’s a bewitching time management game for you! You have a little shop, The Mystic Emporium, where you brew potions, sell artifacts and grow pocus berries. As your customers come in — you’ll definitely meet withches, vampries, wizards, and more — give them what they ask for and you’ll be nicely rewarded. Both iPhone and iPad versions are on sale for Black Friday for just 99 cents! They’re both Game-Center ready so compete with your friends for the achievement points. iPhone/iPod Touch Version (99 cents) | iPad Version (99 cents)

Price Check by Amazon – If you’re out shopping already, you may want to use this app to scan products you’re thinking about buying! Scan the barcode of an item and it’ll return you all the prices it’s selling for. Compare and see if you’re getting the best deal. It’s the perfect app for the holiday shopping season! iPhone Version (Free)

November Bargain iPhone & iPad Apps

I hope your November is going well so far. Now that we’re in the shopping season, it’s always nice to save a bit of money. So here are this week’s top bargain apps! Purchase them quickly as offers may not last long!

Hotel Dash – This is the only time management game played vertically! From the makers of Diner Dash and Cooking Dash comes this new title. Help Flo turn a run down hotel into a fancy 5-star one! Rush up elevators to bring up guests suitcases, towels, water, and food. Normally $2.99, it’s on sale this week for just 99 cents! iPhone/iPod Touch Version (99 cents)

Astronut – IconFactory does it again with another amazing game. Blast off into space, hopping from planet to planet into uncharted galaxies! Gather pieces of stars but avoid the evil aliens. Easy game play, Game Center-ready, and is free (first 4 levels)! 20 additional levels are available as in-app purchases for $1.99. iPhone/iPod Touch Version (Free)

Boxcar – Missing tweets or Facebook statuses? Here’s a great app to notify you of what you want to know the most the moment it happens. You can set it to so you only get notified of specific things, such as tweets from a specific person / group / lists or when a blog gets updated. Notifications available for these services are: Twitter, Facebook, Google Voice, Reddit, Google Buzz, Foursquare, Gowalla, Email, Github, RSS, Growl, and OMGFacts. It’s worth the download if you enjoy social networking. iPhone/iPod Touch Version (Free)

Google Voice – The app is back! Now you can access your Google Voice account right on your iPhone. Now you can display your Google Voice number as your caller id, manage your account right on your phone, and receive push notifications of new text/voice messages.
iPhone/iPod Touch 4 Version (Free)

Kik Messenger – It’s a free cross-platform smartphone to smartphone messenger. Sending a message is fast and easy. It’ll even tell you when your message was read. It has a beautiful interface and works on iPhone, Blackberry, and Android.
iPhone/iPod Touch Version (Free)

Magic Fiddle – Smule is back with another great app! Learn how to play a fiddle right on your iPad! Holding it may be hard at first because of the iPad’s shape, but you’ll get the hang of it soon enough. Try out Twinkle Twinkle at your first song in the songbook. Additional song sets are available for 99 cents. Normally $2.99, the app is on sale this weekend only for 99 cents!
iPad Version (99 cents)

TouchPetsCats – Love cats but are you allergic to them? Or love them so much you wish you could carry them around with you all the time? Now you can have your very own virtual cat pet with TouchPetsCats! Adopt an adorable cutie and take care of it each day. It needs lots of love and attention just like real cats! iPhone/iPod Touch Version (Free)

Totally Tangled – There’s not too much to this app, but if you love the movie previews (coming out Nov. 24th), you may enjoy it! There are three main functions to the app — a sliding puzzle game, a character photo, and a link to the movie’s trailer. The puzzle game takes a scene from the movie and mixes it up. You need to un-tangle it. ;) You can also take a photo with Pascal. The movie trailer looks amazing! iPhone/iPod Touch Version (Free)

Mr.Aah! – Jump from building to building by swinging across the screen (like Spiderman). Land right in the center of the building to earn bonus points. You have three lives, so use them wisely! See how far you can get before falling down the buildings!
iPhone/iPod Touch Version (Free) | iPhone/iPod Touch Lite Version (Free)

iPhone & iPad App Review: We Doodle

If you love to draw, or doodle, then I have a game for you! It’s Ngmoco’s latest title called “We Doodle.” It’s a a cross between “Pictionary” and “Win, Lose, or Draw” where you take turns drawing out words and have your friends guess what it is.

Login with your Plus+ account and start a new game. Here you have a three game choices. You can play a match with friends (people on your Plus+ friends list), a match with random players, or a live match where you draw and guess with users around the world in real-time.

Click on “Go” to create a new game. At the start of each game, you also have the option of adjusting the game’s settings. You can change the:

• Number of pictures (up to 10)
• Rounds (up to 5)
• Time Limit (4 hours to 7 days)

Once you create a game, you are given a word to draw. Draw the word to the best of your ability. You also have a selection of colors and tools to use in the lower right. Submit your drawings and wait for your friends to guess them. Your friends have 60 seconds to guess each drawing. This is a turn-based game, so you can play at your convenience.

Once your friend(s) make their guesses, it’s your turn to award them points! It’s 3 points for every drawing they get right, and if you reply within 5:30 hours, you get extra bonus points as well.

The points you earn are the amount of coins you get. Collect and save your coins to purchase new backgrounds, stencils, ink colors, pens, brushes, and more! The more your play, the more fun things you can purchase from the Doodle shop.

We Doodle is a freemium app, so you’ll get the ocassional ads. You can remove the ads by going to the “Doodle Bank” and purchasing the upgrade for $4.99. The ads are somewhat bothersome in the iPhone version, but are non-intrusive on the iPad version. Of the two versions, the game is more fun to play on the iPad because of the screen real estate.

Some tips when playing:

• If you want to save the image you drew, take a snapshot of it. You won’t see the full image again after you submit it.
• Be careful not to close the app when taking a snapshot. You will lose your image if it wasn’t submitted yet.
• Useful tools to purchase are the brushes and inks colors. I didn’t find the stencils, pen, spray can very useful in my drawings.
• If you want to earn more XP and coins quickly, play the Live mode (as games are played instantly and coins are awarded right after).
• Turn Doodle Assist off. It tries to connect all of your lines even when you don’t want them to.

Overall, it’s a fun game to play with your friends and I’m sure it’ll bring out your creativity. You might just unlock the hidden artist inside of you!

Download: iPhone/iPod Touch Version (Free) | iPad Version (Free)

Baby with an iPad

I was at a bakery today. While waiting for my coffee, I saw this beautiful thing stroll by next to me… The first thought that came to me was why is that iPad caseless?! I’m really happy that the baby has a great grip on it. heh

iPad Case Review: Fabrix Booklet

If you’re looking for a nice clean design, you need to take a look at the Fabrix Booklet! It’s a folio-styled iPad case that holds your iPad securely in place, minus al the bulk.

Open the case and simply slide in your iPad into the slot. The slot has cutouts for the iPad screen, the Ambient Light Sensor, and the Home button. Along the edges are cutouts for ports like the headset, speakers, charger, as well as openings for the on/off, orientation (soon to be mute), and volume buttons.

Once the iPad is in, you can close the front flap and it’ll look like a beautiful book. The booklet is held together using ultra thin magnets. This prevents the front flap from opening up on its own. Anti-slip suede used on the interior prevents the iPad from sliding out. You can hold it upside to test. To take the iPad out will require you to pull it out. This eliminates the need for straps or small flaps to hold it in.

When you open the flap, there are three small and thin compartments on the inner side. These compartments are nice to slide in business cards, or smaller pieces of paper. Bend the flap further back to create a sturdy landscape iPad stand. You can put it in portrait mode, but I wouldn’t recommend it.

One downfall of this case is that doesn’t protect every aspect of the iPad. The left edges of the iPad (if you held it in portrait mode) are exposed, making scratches and bumps possible. I would recommend carrying this case in an iPad bag if you intend to take it to various place, or apply a scratch protect system that covers the edges of the iPad.

Overall, the simplistic look and high quality materials used for this case sets it apart from other cases. The case is lightweight and protects the screen, which is a huge plus.

The Fabrix Booklet is available in 3 colors — Faux Black, Gray Matter, and Classic Tan, perfect whether you’re a fashionista, a professional, or both!

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars · $59.90 · FabrixCases.com

Disclosure: This product was sent by Fabrix for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPhone and iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

iPad Case Review: Incipio 1337

Serious iPad gamers need a good grip on their device. The only iPad case on the market that can keep up with the quick turns and high speed racing games is Incipio’s 1337 iPad case. Ergonomically designed, this high density silicone case makes your gaming experience more enjoyable.

Four L-shaped protrusions on the back make the iPad very easy to hold. You’ll have the same sturdy grip on the iPad, no matter which direction you hold it. It doesn’t exactly feel like a steering wheel, but it’s pretty close!

The entire case is made of soft silicone that’s light and extremely easy to put on. It’s one piece that you can fit your iPad in, one corner at at time. The case is thick in the back for easy holding, and covers the entire iPad (except for the screen), leaving the edges well protected. There are cutouts for the certain ports like the headset, orientation button (soon to be mute button), speakers, and charging areas. The On/Off and volume buttons are covered and are much easier to control with the case’s own buttons.

The interior of the case is shaped into a unique honeycomb pattern. This reduces 30% of the case’s weight, yet still gives your iPad superior protection and absorbing any bumps or shocks.

The Incipio 1337 iPad case is available in 3 colors: Dark Red, Blue Steel, and Yellow. The case comes with a Surface Protector and Microfiber Cleaning Cloth and can be purchased for $34.99.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars · $34.99 · myIncipio.com

Disclosure: This product was sent by Incipio for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPhone and iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

iPad Case Review: iFrogz Soft Gloss

The iFrogz Soft Gloss iPad case is simplicity with a little pizazz! If you ever slipped into those jelly shoes back in the 80′s, you’ll feel right at home with this case.

This clear case features a radial circular pattern etched on the interior, highlighting the beautiful Apple^TM logo in the back.

Putting the iPad in the case is quite easy. Just slide one corner at a time and it’s in. There are cutouts for all ports and buttons on the iPad, making all functionalities accessible. The case covers all the edges of the iPad, protecting it from any potential bumps and scratches.

What makes this case stand out is the beautiful design. You get ouu’s and ahh’s when you carry your iPad around in this. It’s sleek, compact, and should fit in most iPad sleeves and bags. It makes a fashion statement while protecting your iPad! It’s a total blast from the past!

The iFrogs Soft Gloss is available in three retro translucent colors — pink, blue, and clear. You can get them for $29.99 at iFrogz.com

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars · $29.99 · iFrogz.com · Purchase on Amazon

Disclosure: This product was sent by iFrogz for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPhone and iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

iPad Case Review: Griffin AirStrap

The Griffin AirStrap is a case with that has the right combination of sturdy hardness for protection, yet still have a touch of softness for comfort. Made of a non-slip material, this case is the perfect solution for those times when you need to hold the iPad in just one hand.

The case encompasses all the edges of the iPad with a thick hard plastic. This piece has little grooves in it, making it easy to hold onto. The edges have cutouts for ports such as the headset, mic, orientation button, speakers, and charger. On/Off and volume buttons are accessible, but covered by the case. What makes this case special is the wide neoprene strap on the back. Slip your hand in and you can safely hold the iPad with just one hand.

The strap on the back has little bumps to keep the iPad from slipping against your hand. It securely holds it in place, but once you’re done holding it, you may find your hand filled with little round bumps. Not to worry, they go away in a matter of minutes. I did find that the strap is a bit tight and restricts the blood flow to your hands. So be sure to remove it from your hand when not needed.

Overall, this case is great when you need to use the iPad while walking. One hand will hold the iPad securely, while the other one is jotting down notes or drawing.

The Griffin AirStrap is available in only black and can be purchased for $49.99.

Rating: 4.5 our of 5 stars · $49.99 · GriffinTechnology.com · Purchase on Amazon

Disclosure: This product was sent by Griffin for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

Review: Just Mobile AluPen

When it comes to elegance and design, Just Mobile understands and delivers. Sculptured from fine soft aluminum is the exciting new Alupen^TM; a stylus made with the iPad in mind.

This chunky pencil-shaped stylus gives you what their competitors don’t — more precision and control over your device. The simplistic design in itself is one to marvel at. This piece fits perfectly in your hand, like a chalk or a crayon when you were a child. The wider pen gives a better grip and more control of your writing or drawing.

Instead of a flat tip like some of their competitors, the Alupen has a soft round tip used to write on your iPad. No matter what angle you hold the stylus in, it’ll still make the intended marks on your device.

It’s the perfect tool to use with iPad apps like Penultimate (note taking/drawing app) and We Doodle (drawing game). You’ll be surprised at how much your handwriting is more clear when writing. Or how more crisps your drawings are.

Another plus to this stylus is the beautiful color. It matches Apple products perfectly! It’ll match your Apple iPad, keyboard, and trackpad like it was part of a set.

This stylus also works on the iPhone and iPod Touch, however, the size of it may seem a little awkward on the smaller devices. Overall, this is probably the best stylus for the iPad on the market now and is a necessity for any tablet artist.

Just Mobile’s new Alupen^TM comes in only aluminum color and can be purchased for $24.95. For more information, see their official website.

Disclosure: This product was sent by Just Mobile for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPhone and iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

More Just Mobile products..

iPads at Target

This was the first time I saw iPads at Target! Yes, I had to take a photo. :)

Family Time with an iPad

Family time was spent around the iPad, playing Cut the Rope HD. :)

Hot iPhone and iPad Apps for 10-10-2010

Here’s a list of hot bargain apps for the week of 10-10-2010! So what were you doing on 10/10/2010 10:10pm. I was busy gaming as you can see. ;)

Cut the Rope – If you haven’t downloaded this gem yet, do it now! Who doesn’t love physics games with something as adorable as a green pet that only eats candy? Candy dangles on a rope and you must cut it so that it falls right into the mouth of your cute pet. Lite version contains a lot of free levels, but I suggest getting the full version for even more! Game Center is available on both lite and full iPhone versions.
iPhone Version (99 cents) | iPhone Version (Free) | iPad Version ($1.99) | iPad Lite Version (Free)

Bejeweled 2 + Blitz – Your favorite match-3 game goes on sale! Pop Cap is celebrating their 10-Year anniversary so it’s on sale! Match gems to clear the row or column. Get powerups to blast a whole section. Game is over when no more moves are available.
iPhone Version (99 cents)

Bookworm – Hello there little bookworm. Why not sink your teeth into some big words? Link adjacent letters to form words for Lex the Bookworm to eat. The bigger the words, the more points you get. Watch for power-ups! Normally $2.99, it’s on sale for 99 cents this week for Pop Cap’s 10 year anniversary. Get it fast! iPhone Version (99 cents)

Super Mega Worm – Retro games are making their way back! And if this game wasn’t a classic before, it should be! Giant worm invades earth, whose main goal is to cleanse Earth of sinful humans. Yes it’s a bit on the violence side, but fun nevertheless. I must warn you, your thumbs will start to hurt as you rack up those points! Game Center is enabled on iOS 3.2 devices.
Universal Version (99 cents) | Universal Lite Version (Free)

Time Geeks: Find All! – a fun seek and find game in a colorful world of pixels. The artwork alone is alone is a great reason to purchase. You are timed for finding the given item. The faster you find it, the more starts you get for that task. Unlock achievements and mini-games along the way! Game Center is enabled for iOS 3.2 devices, so compete against your friends!
iPhone Version (99 cents)

Zappos – As if your weren’t addicted to shopping at Zappos.com already, they just made a gorgeous iPad app that let’s your browse through all of your future accessories! Select an item and swipe up and down to scroll though the different angles. It sure makes shopping a lot of fun! Tab through reviews, more details, and more info about the brand. Shop for shoes, clothing, bags, beauty products, as well as housewares. Great user interface and that’s both functional and easy to use! iPad Version (Free)

Sir Lovalot – You get to play the part of a knight in shiny armor, ready to rescue the princesses! Hop up the castle and rescue the girls and be sure to get a smooch before you jump back out of the window. Collect items along the way and see how high you can go! It’s like Doodle Jump with a twist! Literally! Tilt your device to twist the castle and hop on the different pedestals!
iPhone Version (99 cents)

Tilt To Live – Tilt the device to maneuver around the red dots. Pick out power ups along the way to blast those vicious red dots away. Be careful not to touch them, else the game is over. Very easy concept, but quite challenging to play. The iPad version is available for free, but to upgrade to full version is $3.99 (in-app purchase). iPhone version is available as well.
iPad Version (Free) | iPhone Version ($2.99)

Doodle Grub is an adorable game of snakes! You’re actually start out as a small worm. Eat the fresh green apples by tiling your device to grow even bigger. Avoid the poisonous apples as well as the spiny porcupines! Running into the porcupines will make you smaller. Very adorable graphics and various themes to choose from. Game center is enabled, and lots more updates to come! iPhone Version (Free)

0.03 Seconds – If you enjoy testing your reaction time, this one is a fun one. It measures your reaction time to the milliseconds and pixels! Think you got what tit takes? Take these tests and see! Free version has 8 stages, while pro version has 24.
iPhone Version (Free) | iPhone Version (99 cents)

Despicable Me: Minion Mania – Enjoyed the movie? Now you can play with the cute minions right on your devices! Become one of the greatest supervillians by commanding Gru’s army of Minions through the top secret laboratory! Includes 20 stages. Originally $4.99, currently on sale for 99 cents for both iPhone and iPad versions.
iPhone Lite Version (Free) | iPhone Version (99 cents) | iPad Version (99 cents)

Slice It! – Once you slice it, you can’t stop! Slice various shapes to get the same ratio or surface area. You’re given the number of slices to create, and the shape to create it from. Cut and slash and level up! Adorable graphics and animation. Try out the free version first to get 15 levels for free. iPhone Version (99 cents) | iPhone Version (Free)

Cro-Mag Rally – Play the wildest racing 3D game yet! You’ve seen it in all of the Apple commercials, now get it for yourself for this special sale price! Race those pre-historic vehicles. Universal app for both your iPhone and iPad. Normally $2.99, it’s on sale for 99 cents.
Universal Version (99 cents)

Review: STM iPad Org Board

Need a way to organize your iPad and its accessories? Meet the new STM iPad Org Board — it’s a minimalist’s design for taking your necessities on the go.

The iPad Org Board was designed with an on-to-go person in mind. Both sides of the board are made to be functional. One side of the board is made of neoprene, aimed to hold and protect the iPad. The other side is made of a micro ripstop backing along with a strip of stretchy fabric runs across it to create four slots for your accessories.

The neoprene side has a pocket that your iPad can slide right into. On top is a flap closure that encloses your iPad entirely in the sleeve. In the middle is a backing made of a sturdy board to give the Org Board its shape. I recommend sliding your iPad in face down so it’s flat on this surface.

On the flip side is a 300D micro ripstop that has 4 slots for your accessories. There are two large slots and two smaller ones. The large slots fit items like an iPhone or an iPod Touch. Ideally, you may want to put your iPhone or iPod Touch in one and wrap your charging cable in the other slot. In the center are two smaller slots, perfect for a pen, stylus, and/or headsets.

One thing to keep in mind is that the neoprene is form-fitted for the iPad, so it’ll work best if the iPad does not have a case on (unless it’s super slim). On the organizational side, I recommend sliding your iPod Touch or iPhone into the slot without a case, or with a very slim case on. A thick case may stretch the slot, or make it difficult to take out.

The ideal use for this iPad Org Board is if you want to carry your iPad to a short distance, perhaps to a meeting. You can carry it on your arm like a folder and still have all your accessories when you reach your destination. It’s also ideal to pack your iPad Org Board into another bag to make it easier to take your necessities with you anywhere.

Overall, the STM iPad Org Board is thin, minimal, and very lightweight to carry your iPad in. It’s certainly one of the more unique iPad accessories that makes a great organizational tool that’s perfect for carrying alone or putting it in another bag. It could be purchased at STMbags.com for $24.95.

3.5 out of 5 stars · STMbags.com · $24.95

Disclosure: This product was sent by STM for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

Review: Ten 1 Design Pogo Sketch Stylus

When the iPad first came out, I thought it’d make a magnificent artist tool. But the only way I could create sketches was by drawing with my fingers.

But there’s a great accessory to fix that. It’s the Pogo Sketch stylus. It’s like a pen for your iPad! The Pogo Sketch is about the same size of a slender pen. It’s made of a lightweight aluminum alloy that feels like a feather in your hand. One end has a clip that you can use to clip on your shirt, pocket, or purse. And on the the other end is a soft tip that you use to glide over the iPad when drawing or writing.

iPad apps like Penultimate and iDraft, and other drawing apps work very well with the Pogo Sketch. Since you’re writing with your hand (and not your fingers), the letters are more accurate to your real handwriting.

To do this, launch your preferred drawing/writing app and write as you would with a pen. Instead of writing at an angle, try writing in more of a right angle. The stylus doesn’t have a pointy end, so writing on the iPad in 90 degrees angle works better.

Just think, now you can sign your name on documents electronically. Or draw and write with a little more accuracy than your fingers would. Also, since your fingers are no longer needed to tap on the iPad surface, you can wear gloves when it’s too cold. Just tap on the icons on the screen to open and close apps like you would with your fingers!

One downfall of the stylus is it’s flat writing surface. As mentioned before, it’s not a pointy tool, so there is less precision when writing and you would need to write in a more upright angle. But that’s not much of a drawback if you need a tool like this. Think of is as a wide medium point pen instead of fine point pen.

The Pogo Sketch also works on iPhones and iPod Touches, as well as your MacBook trackpad. For the MacBook, it will need the help of a software called Inklet, you can also turn the trackpad on your Macbook into a mini tablet as well.

The Ten 1 Design Pogo Sketch is available in four fun colors — pink, orange, green, and silver for $14.95. In addition, the new Ten One Design Particle iPad Case comes with a silver Pogo Sketch stylus, packaged together for $30. You may consider getting this package if you want a place to put your stylus. Review of this item is forthcoming.

For more information on the Pogo Sketch, see the official website.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars · $14.95 · TenOneDesign.com

Disclosure: This product was sent by Ten One Design for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

« Previous Page — Next Page »